Use navigation in the Google Maps app

You can use navigation in the Google Maps app to get turn-by-turn directions to places easily. Maps will show you directions and uses real-time traffic information to find the best route to your destination.

With voice navigation, you’ll hear traffic alerts, where to turn, which lane to use, and if there's a better route.

Note: Navigation and info about which lane to use aren't available in all regions and languages.

Start or stop navigation

Open the Google Maps app .

Search for a place or tap it on the map.

In the bottom right, tap Directions. If you touch and hold the button instead, you’ll start navigation and can skip steps 4-6.

Optional: To add additional destinations, go to the top right and tap More Add stop. You can add up to 9 stops. When you are finished, tap Done.

Choose one of the following:

Driving:

Transit:

Walking:

Rides:

Cycling:

If other routes are available, they will be shown in gray on the map. To follow an alternate route, tap the gray line.

To start navigation, tap Start . If you see “Searching for GPS,” your phone is trying to get a GPS signal. For example, you might be in or near a tunnel, parking garage, or other location where there’s no GPS signal.

Hear voice navigation from your car speakers

Next to "Play voice over Bluetooth," turn the switch on. If you don't see this option, it's not available on your device.

Hear voice navigation from your phone or tablet’s speaker

Open the Google Maps app Menu SettingsNavigation settings.

Next to "Play voice over Bluetooth," turn the switch off. If you don’t see this option, turn off Bluetooth on your phone or tablet.

Notes:

On Google Maps for Android version 9.13 and up, you can play a test sound. To play a test sound, open the Google Maps app SettingsNavigation settingsPlay test sound. You'll hear "This is what it will sound like when navigating with Google Maps."

If you want to charge your phone or tablet, use a charging-only USB cable or a power adapter that’s connected to an outlet or cigarette lighter.